Mechanical and dry sliding tribological characteristics of aluminium matrix composite reinforced with high entropy alloy particles

Abstract

This study investigates the CoMoMnNiV high entropy alloy reinforced aluminium matrix composite processed through stir-squeeze casting assisted with an ultrasonic transducer. The mechanical properties, hardness and compressive strength, significantly improved by 45% and 24%, respectively, for 8 wt% HEA compared to the base alloy. The Dry sliding wear analysis revealed that the composites are able to sustain higher load compared to the base alloy and show better wear resistance. A significant reduction in the wear rate was noticed across all HEA content levels, but the highest resistance to wear was demonstrated by composites containing 8 wt% HEAp. A thorough examination of the microstructure, particle distribution, particle-matrix interface, and worn surface was conducted using optical microscopy, SEM, and an optical profilometer.